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A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Civil Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 May 2026 | Viewed by 8558

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Prof. Dr. Markssuel Teixeira Marvila

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Guest Editor

Department of Civil Engineering, UFV—Federal University of Viçosa, Rio Paranaíba Campus, Rodovia BR 230 KM 7, Rio Paranaiba 38810-000, Brazil
Interests: geopolymers; mortar; portland cement

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Innovative building materials have been a constant search in Materials Science, due to the importance of the construction sector for technological advancement. The exhaustive use of natural resources to produce binders and other materials, the extensive release of greenhouse gasses, and high energy expenditure contribute to the urgency of developing sustainable construction materials.

Exemplifying the problem is the production of Portland cement, used in concrete and mortars. This is one of the materials most used by humanity, second only to water, whose production consumes a high amount of natural resources, such as limestone, clay, and sand. Furthermore, the production of Porltand cement is responsible for the emission of 630–800 kg of CO₂/tons of Portland cement, due to the use of fuels and due to the decarbonation of limestone.

Other building materials also present alarming environmental problems. This is the case with the intensive use of aggregates, such as natural sand and crushed stones; the use of asphalt and bituminous materials for paving and waterproofing, from petrochemical industries; the use of steel products, responsible for the generation of different types of slag from material processing; ceramic products, used in blocks and tiles, which consume available natural clay reserves; and the use of synthetic fibers, such as glass, carbon, and steel, used to reinforce cementitious composites. Through this information, the importance of this Special Issue, “Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications”, becomes clear.

Recommended topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

Development of alternative and eco-friendly binders;
Study of additional cementitious materials and pozzolans;
Analysis of geopolymers and activated alkali materials with ecological potential;
Characterization and application of recycled aggregates in cementitious materials;
Cementitious and polymeric composites with natural lignocellulosic fibers;
Characterization and application of waste in ceramic materials;
Studies of alternative and ecological asphalt and bituminous materials;
Application of waste and slags in construction materials;
Life cycle analysis of sustainable construction materials;
Circular economy analysis of sustainable construction materials.

Prof. Dr. Markssuel Teixeira Marvila
Guest Editor

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Keywords

sustainability
Portland cement
pozzolans
geopolymers
natural fibers
ceramic materials
wastes

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

24 pages, 6634 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Reinforced Concrete Slab Bridge System for Immediate Traffic Opening During Curing Period of Cement Concrete Pavement

by Kang In Lee, Soon Ho Baek, Sang Jin Kim, Geon Lee and Seong-Min Kim

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(9), 4275; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16094275 - 27 Apr 2026

Viewed by 225

Abstract

A temporary traffic bridge system (TTBS) is proposed for immediate traffic opening during cast-in-place cement concrete pavement construction in high-traffic urban areas. The basic behaviors such as strains, stresses, and deflections of the TTBS fabricated using reinforced concrete slabs were analyzed numerically and verified through experiments. The concept of the TTBS was explained first, and a detailed description of its components was provided. Afterwards, a TTBS using reinforced concrete slabs was designed and a numerical analysis model for it was created. Using the numerical analysis model of the TTBS, the basic behaviors such as stresses and deflections of the slabs were analyzed when the loads of heavy vehicles such as buses were applied to the interior, joint, and edge of the reinforced concrete slabs. In addition, the behavioral characteristics according to the configuration of the joint between slabs of the TTBS were also analyzed. It was confirmed that the strength of the TTBS can be secured by designing with appropriate shear keys. These shear keys simply create a physical interlocking at the slab joints without applying special elements to the slab joints. They also enable the rapid assembly and disassembly of slabs suitable for the TTBS. To verify these numerical analysis results, small-scale reinforced concrete slabs were manufactured and a TTBS was constructed to conduct experiments. The behaviors obtained through experiments of the reinforced concrete slabs were compared with the behaviors obtained through numerical analyses, and it was confirmed that they were very similar, thus verifying the appropriateness of the numerical analysis model. This study eventually demonstrated that the TTBS can effectively be applied to convert existing asphalt pavements in congested urban areas to more durable cement concrete pavements while minimizing the public inconvenience caused by traffic control. Furthermore, the TTBS constructed using reinforced concrete slabs was evaluated as structurally safe and thus suitable for field application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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37 pages, 29995 KB

Open AccessArticle

Durability Enhancement of Coal-Fired Biomass Ash Concrete Using Bio-Inspired Self-Healing Coatings

by Nisal Dananjana Rajapaksha, Mehrdad Ameri Vamkani, Zarina Yahya, Rahul V. Ralegaonkar, Michaela Gkantou, Francesca Giuntini and Ana Bras

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(5), 2383; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16052383 - 28 Feb 2026

Viewed by 583

Abstract

Premature deterioration of reinforced concrete is driven largely by moisture and chloride ingress, which accelerate steel corrosion and shorten service life. This study investigates a dual strategy to enhance durability while supporting circular-economy goals: (i) incorporating coal-fired biomass ash (CBA) as a fine-aggregate replacement (0%, 20%, and 50%) and (ii) applying bio-inspired surface treatments to reduce transport pathways. To capture variability in CBA performance across different environmental and material contexts, two concrete systems—produced in India and the UK—were evaluated, each subjected to a distinct coating approach: a bacterial self-healing treatment or a cinnamaldehyde (CNM) organic barrier. Mechanical, transport, and multi-scale characterization was performed, including compressive strength, capillary absorption, chloride migration (NT Build 492), SEM/EDS, XRF, and XRD. The 20% CBA mixes maintained or slightly improved strength, while higher CBA contents increased porosity but reduced chloride transport in the UK mix. The bacterial coating reduced long-term water absorption by over 80% through CaCO₃ mineralization, offering strong moisture resistance. The CNM coating decreased chloride migration by up to 68% via hydrophobic and ionic-blocking effects. Overall, moderate CBA with self-healing treatment enhances moisture control, whereas higher CBA with CNM provides effective chloride protection, extending the service life of CBA-based concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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20 pages, 3121 KB

Open AccessArticle

Awning Design and Performance Considerations Under Winter Storms in Zero Ground Snow Load Zones

by Arash Rahmatian and Farzad Hejazi

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(4), 1876; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16041876 - 13 Feb 2026

Viewed by 412

Abstract

The outcomes of the Winter Storm URI in Houston (February 2021) and its impact on awnings highlighted how climate change has altered the load combinations considered in design codes such as ASCE 7-16, introducing new uncertainties due to freezing storm events. Previously unused load categories are now presenting significant challenges, as designers assumed sufficient safety factors would prevent failures. This research investigates the consequences of the storm and offers guidelines for conservative awning design in zero ground snow load zones, emphasizing wind load as the primary design load in regions with no active snow zone. Additionally, an attempt has been made in this research to examine the importance of anchor reliability in concrete structures, particularly under environmental stress such as winter storms. Factors like improper installation, edge distance, and embedment depth significantly affect anchor performance, potentially leading to premature failure modes like concrete breakout, pullout, or rusting from water accumulation. Through field investigations and theoretical analyses, the research evaluates the axial load capacity of anchors, taking into account edge distance, embedment depth, and environmental factors like ice accumulation. The study stresses the need for proper anchor geometry, drainage, and reinforcement to ensure structural safety. By following the proposed recommendations, engineers can mitigate adverse effects and enhance the durability and safety of concrete structures, even under extreme weather conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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18 pages, 3888 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization Design and Wear Resistance Research on Ultra-Long Inclined-Shaft Concrete Chute

by Zhaogao Zeng, Pengfei Hu, Yunjin Li, Feng Luo, Zhiguo Wang, Liqin Xun, Erwei Guo and Hong Chen

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(4), 1784; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16041784 - 11 Feb 2026

Viewed by 346

Abstract

This study investigates concrete chute transportation technology for 1000 m ultra-long inclined shafts through design calculations, laboratory tests, and field trials. By optimizing concrete mix proportions, the research resolves segregation issues in ultra-long chute concrete. Field investigations identified alumina ceramic and ultra-high molecular wear-resistant materials as suitable inner lining options. Through grinding wheel wear tests and finite element simulations, both materials demonstrated adequate wear resistance for concrete discharge operations. To meet the requirements for lightweight construction, durability, and rapid replacement, the chute diameter, ceramic sheet thickness, and multi-length sections were optimized. Customized configurations included eight-section fiberglass pipes with alumina ceramic linings and four-section ultra-high molecular wear-resistant chutes. Field tests confirmed both materials satisfied operational needs. Economic analysis concluded that ultra-high molecular wear-resistant materials are recommended as the preferred inner lining for ultra-long concrete chutes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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19 pages, 4964 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on Bonding Performance of Steel Rebar and Grout at Different Positions After Elevated Temperatures

by Tingting Peng, Jijun Miao, Bochen Song, Yanchun Liu, Jiaqi Zhang, Dongde Sun and Sumeng Song

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 1053; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16021053 - 20 Jan 2026

Viewed by 386

Abstract

To evaluate the fire safety performance of the joint region in prefabricated buildings, specifically when the grout in the slurry layer is under an unconstrained state. Total 54 pull-out specimens were designed to investigate the effects of elevated temperatures (20 °C, 200 °C, 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C, and 600 °C) and steel bar positions (center, mid-side, and corner) on the bond behavior between the grout and steel rebars. The failure modes, bond strength, ultimate displacement, and load–slip curves of the specimens were recorded. The peak load of the specimens with the temperature increasing first rose and then declined, exhibiting a trend consistent with the variation in compressive strength of the grout with temperature. At 600 °C, the ultimate loads of the center, mid-side, and corner specimens decreased by 53.46%, 52.53%, and 51.28%, respectively, compared with those at ambient temperature. At ambient temperature, the bond strength of the mid-side specimen was 11.24% lower than that of the central specimen, but 19.98% higher than that of the corner specimen. At 500 °C, the bond strength of the mid-side and corner specimens decreased by 15.76% and 39.26%, respectively, compared with that of the center specimen. The failure mode changed from steel-rebar fracture to pull-out failure due to the high temperature exposure and the steel rebar position. Finally, based on the post-heating strength test results of grout specimens, a bond strength calculation formula and a bond–slip constitutive model, considering both steel rebar position and temperature, were developed, achieving a correlation coefficient (R²) close to 1.0. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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16 pages, 7013 KB

Open AccessArticle

Performance of Bacterial Concrete with Agro-Waste Capsules

by Ivanka Netinger Grubeša, Dalibor Kramarić, Dunja Šamec and Anđelko Crnoja

Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16020755 - 11 Jan 2026

Viewed by 448

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of agro-waste-based capsules made from grape seeds and cherry pits on the physical, mechanical, thermal and self-healing properties of concrete. Capsule-containing mixtures were compared with a reference concrete after 28 days of water curing using both standardized and non-standardized testing methods. Capsule incorporation reduced workability by up to 91% and altered air content depending on capsule type, increasing it by 47% for grape seed capsules and decreasing it by 65% for cherry pit capsules. Fresh concrete density was reduced by 5.5% and 6.8% for grape seed and cherry pit capsules, respectively, while hardened concrete density decreased by 11% and 9%, implying lighter structures with improved seismic resistance. Compressive strength decreased by 49% for grape seed capsules and 27% for cherry pit capsules. Thermal conductivity was reduced by 32% and 22%, respectively, indicating improved energy efficiency. Concrete with grape seed capsules showed freeze–thaw performance comparable to the reference concrete after 112 cycles, whereas concrete with cherry pit capsules exhibited superior dynamic modulus behavior, suggesting continuous crack healing, despite significant mass loss due to poor capsule–matrix bonding. SEM analysis showed no significant crack reduction, while EDS revealed calcium-rich areas in grape seed capsule concrete, indicating possible crack healing. Overall, agro-waste capsule concrete shows potential for improving seismic resistance and energy efficiency, although further research is required to clarify the self-healing effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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17 pages, 4289 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Investigations of the Properties of Foam Concrete for Utilisation as Crushed Lightweight Aggregates in Building Slabs

by Anastasia Koutsouradi, Philip Skov Halding and Kurt Kielsgaard Hansen

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(17), 9771; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15179771 - 5 Sep 2025

Viewed by 1503

Abstract

Foam concrete is examined for use as a lightweight aggregate in concrete for building slabs. Crushed foam concrete should substitute LECAs in areas where LECAs are inaccessible. Suitable foam concrete mixes with and without admixtures and fine aggregates (limestone, stone dust, and micro silica) are tested to determine the densities (approx. range 550–1100 kg/m³), compressive strengths (approx. 0–8 MPa), and crushing potential measures as Percentage Mass of Useful Material After Crushing (approx. 70–90%). A mixing technique is developed using high revolutions. Some mixes show potential by providing a combination of density below 800 kg/m³, an adequately high compressive strength to be handled (>1 MPa), a low cement content (below 300 kg/m³), and a sufficiently high level of larger fragments above 4 mm when crushed (>80%). The results show that oven curing and curing beyond one day do not have a significant benefit. The investigation shows potential for two mixes, though developing the desired mixes further and studying a more consistent industrialised crushing method is recommended. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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22 pages, 7505 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigations on an Ancient Mortar from Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa Archaeological Site, Romania

by Zeno Dorian Ghizdavet, Corina Anca Simion, Anton Ficai, Ovidiu-Cristian Oprea, Radu Claudiu Fierascu, Maria Loredana Marin, Doina-Roxana Trușcă, Vasile-Adrian Surdu, Ludmila Motelica, Iuliana Madalina Stanciu, Alexandru Razvan Petre and Ileana Radulescu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(10), 5780; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105780 - 21 May 2025

Viewed by 1717

Abstract

A fragment of mortar from the pedestal ruin belonging to the central statue in Forum Vetus, Ulpia Traiana archaeological site, Romania, was investigated. The ruin is well-documented and unrestored, and radiocarbon dating was deemed suitable to determine its moment of construction. Preliminary analyses were used to establish the composition of the material and the sources of carbon-14, selecting the most reliable fraction for radiocarbon dating by the AMS method. Although sampling was carried out according to the recommendations, a younger apparent age was obtained than that expected. This is in fact a concrete-like mortar according to the analyses, and the phenomenon of delayed hardening of mortar in masonry was detected. The difference between the real and apparent ages quantifies this phenomenon. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry with thermogravimetric analysis, and gamma spectrometry were used. Pyrogenic calcium carbonate and carbonates from calcium silicate/calcium aluminate hydrates were the only forms present in mini-nodules/lumps. The reactivation of binder calcite or geogenic calcite, the other problems encountered when dating mortars, were not spotted. This case study highlights the limitations of the radiocarbon dating method, and we introduce gamma spectrometry as a technique for additional investigations into direct exposure to the environment or the origins of raw materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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16 pages, 4055 KB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative Cementitious Composites Produced with Corn Straw Fiber: Effect of the Alkaline Treatments

by Thiago Ranilson Caixeta Silva, Luiz Arthur Silva de Aquino, Leonardo Carvalho Mesquita, Marília Gonçalves Marques, Afonso Rangel Garcez de Azevedo and Markssuel Teixeira Marvila

Appl. Sci. 2024, 14(23), 11117; https://doi.org/10.3390/app142311117 - 28 Nov 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1869

Abstract

Recently, numerous studies have been carried out with natural fibers in cementitious composites, due to the viability of using this type of fiber as a substitute for synthetic fibers. In this field of study, the present research aims to evaluate the feasibility of using corn straw fiber for the production of innovative cementitious composites. Mortars with a composition of 1:1:6:1.55 (cement/lime/sand/water) containing 0, 2.5 and 5% corn straw fiber were produced. The corn straw fibers were treated with three different alkaline products: sodium hydroxide (NaOH), potassium hydroxide (KOH) and calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂). The compositions were evaluated by means of compressive strength, water absorption, density and porosity and consistency tests. Characterization tests were also carried out on the natural fibers subjected to the different treatments, where it was observed that chemical characterization revealed an increase in crystalline cellulose from 59.03% to 63.50% (NaOH), 62.41% (KOH) and 60.40% (Ca(OH)₂), which enhances fiber strength. In the mortars, it was observed that the water absorption results were reduced when the alkaline treatments were used, reducing from 15.95% (composition without fibers) to 6.34% and 6.61% in the compositions with 2.5% and 5.0% of fibers treated with KOH, for example. The effects were also positive in the compositions with fibers treated in NaOH, where the water absorption values were 7.59% and 7.88% for the compositions containing 2.5% and 5.0% of treated fiber, respectively. Alkaline treatments also promote an increase in compressive strength when comparing the results of mortars with natural fibers and fibers treated with NaOH, for example. The result for mortars containing 5.0% untreated fibers was 0.22 MPa, while for the composition containing 5.0% fibers treated with NaOH, it was 3.79 MPa, an increase of more than 15x. This behavior is justified by the effect of the treatment, which, in addition to removing impurities from natural fibers, such as sugar, increases the crystalline cellulose content and the adhesion between fiber and matrix. Based on the results obtained, it is possible to conclude that (i) the treatment with NaOH increases the crystallinity and tensile strength of the fibers, promoting good properties for innovative cementitious composites; (ii) the treatment with KOH degrades the cellulose structure of the fiber, reducing the crystallinity and tensile strength; this promotes greater adhesion of the fiber to the matrix, reducing porosity and water absorption, but promotes a reduction in compressive strength when compared to composites with 2.5% natural fiber; and (iii) the treatment with Ca(OH)₂ presents a reduction in water absorption and porosity, due to the impregnation of calcium in the fiber that improves the adhesion between fiber and matrix. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Building Materials: Design, Properties and Applications)

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